India Celebrates Technology Day - 28th Anniversary of Pokhran Nuclear Tests on 11 May 1998 | Current Affairs

India's National Technology Day marks the 28th anniversary of India's successful nuclear tests at Pokhran, Rajasthan conducted on May 11 and 13, 1998. Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted citizens on this occasion stating that the 1998 tests reflected India's scientific excellence and unwavering commitment.

Background: The first three nuclear detonations took place simultaneously at 15:45 hours IST on May 11, 1998 at the Pokhran test range in the Rajasthan desert. This series of tests was codenamed Operation Shakti. India became one of the few nations in the world with demonstrated nuclear capability. National Technology Day is celebrated every year on May 11 to mark this achievement and to recognise India's contributions to science and technology.

Why in News: India celebrated National Technology Day on 11 May 2026 marking the 28th anniversary of the historic Pokhran nuclear tests of 1998.

Key Points to Remember:

Day: National Technology Day
Date: 11 May (celebrated every year)
Commemorates: Pokhran Nuclear Tests - Operation Shakti (1998)
Test location: Pokhran, Rajasthan
Tests conducted on: 11 and 13 May 1998
Key scientists: Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam (then Scientific Adviser to Government of India) and Dr. R. Chidambaram (then Chairman, Atomic Energy Commission) YouTube
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam later became: 11th President of India
India's Nuclear Triad: Land (Agni missiles), Air (fighter-bombers), Sea (nuclear submarines - Arihant class) YouTube
Department of Atomic Energy: Under Prime Minister's Office
Atomic Energy Commission Chairman: Ajit Kumar Mohanty

Related Static GK:

India's first nuclear test: Smiling Buddha - 18 May 1974 at Pokhran
Pokhran location: Jaisalmer district, Rajasthan
India declared itself: Nuclear Weapons State after 1998 tests
India's policy: No First Use (NFU) of nuclear weapons
INS Arihant: India's first nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine
Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG): India seeks full membership